41 Donst Drop The Ball 2 (2/2)

”Did anyone actually hear him sing? I wasn't listening...”

As people whispered, one of the judges, a famous idol from Golden Stars, Joseph Tailor, held up his hand for a moment and stood. ”Stop gossiping pointlessly.”

After he silenced the room, several minutes passed and everyone grew somewhat confused at the judges long conversation.

On the stage, Zachary found himself hoping that the conversation wasn't related to his older brother. Everyone on the judges panel was related to or worked for Golden Stars, so it wasn't entirely impossible.

Eventually, Joseph cleared his throat and spoke. ”We apologize for the interruption, there was just a minor issue relating to the broadcasts and we had to stop for a moment. Please start over, Number 99.”

Starting once again, Zachary performed the same exact song he had been starting before and received appreciative nods from the judges and the now attentive contestants. At the end, the judges all looked at each other for several seconds before unanimously voting to pass him into the official competition.

”Number 100, please come to the stage.” Finally, it was Aika's turn to perform and the nerves were starting to make her jittery. As she walked to the stage, she thought back to what Aria had said the night before. She had spoken lightly but with a hint of seriousness and had only said, ”You're incredible, just don't drop the ball and you'll win easily!” The memory seemed to help her shake off the built up nerves and she walked the final steps up confidently.

Throughout her entire performance, Aika felt she performed every single second perfectly and her smile gradually grew as she got farther in.

When she finished, the judges shared the same glances they had after Zachary performed and Joseph announced once again. ”Congratulations Number 100. We'll see you tomorrow.”

Despite knowing she should be celebrating getting in or excited, all Aika could think about was how great it would be when she gets to her parent's house and gets to be congratulated by Aria and tell her she got passed the entrance competition.